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n the payroll department are pay scales and salary schedules. Although statistics vary slightly from state to state and district to organization, most agree that the average district starting salary is in the mid thirties. The average salary of a tenured teacher in the United States is in the mid fifties to low sixties.

Base salaries are negotiated through a union in most districts. The amount is in conjunction with the years in service and at times, the type of contract you are under. Here is an example of a salary scale in South Florida. 'Step' is the amount of years in service.

Some district will have two pay scales, one for beginning teachers on annual contract and another for tenured teachers. An annual contract means the district has the right to renew or not renew your contract at the end of each school year. A professional services contract is otherwise known as 'tenure'. Tenure means you have an ongoing contract with the district. There may be additional pay incentives for 'tenured' teachers in your districts. Many districts require you work under an 'annual contract' for three to five years before you fall under the 'professional services contract'. The payroll office in your district will let you know where to look for your pay scale and how long you need to work before you are considered tenured or professional service.

Pay Schedules

Beware. Teachers are often given a choice whether to take their annual salary over 10 months, throughout the school year, or 12 months, which includes the summer. Salary schedules vary from district to district, but generally speaking an educator will get paid every two weeks or twice monthly. If one is self-disciplined and fiscally savvy, taking their pay over a 10 month period is the wiser option. An individual can earn interest on the money they put into savings during the year.

For many teachers, especially those without financial finesse, this is quite nice in theory, but by the time summer rolls around they are flat broke. It is highly suggested during that a new teacher take his or her salary over 12 months. Summers are for vacations, professional development and re-energizing for the upcoming year. It is not time to stress and scramble to pay bills or to be living on a diet of ketchup sandwiches. No one wants debt collectors chomping at their heels when it is time for school to resume.
Additional Incentives and Fringe Benefits

Since many districts have additional pay incentives, you will want to check and see what is offered in your area. Here are examples of some more common incentives:

Critical Shortage Areas Some teaching positions are more difficult for districts to fill than others. These are known as 'critical shortage areas'. There are many benefits for teachers with the expertise and education to fill these positions. They usually include science and math, special education and English Speakers of Other Languages. Compensation may range from hiring bonuses to student loan forgiveness programs.
Higher Degrees and Certifications

Districts regularly offer added compensation to teachers with additional credentials. This may include a masters degree in a specific subject area, to ESOL or National Board Certification. Payment may be a one time bonus or a salary increase.

Travel and Lower Economic School Incentives

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